Large Executive Desk attributed to Osvaldo Borsani for Tecno Milano, Italy, 1950s

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Patinated large executive desk designed by Osvaldo Borsani and manufactured by Tecno Milano in Italy, circa 1950. This eye-catching desk … Read more Patinated large executive desk designed by Osvaldo Borsani and manufactured by Tecno Milano in Italy, circa 1950. This eye-catching desk features a unique design with an adjustable integrated drawer, making it a versatile piece with a striking appearance due to its substantial size. It is part of the "Direzionale" (meaning "Directional") collection by Borsani and is constructed from high-quality patinated wood with a chrome metal base. The desk is in good original condition, showing some wear consistent with age and use, while still preserving its beautiful patina. Osvaldo Borsani (Varedo 1911 - Milano 1985) began working at an early age in his family’s furniture business. In 1933, he showcased his design for the “Minimal House” at the Fifth Triennale of Milan, where he was awarded the silver medal. After graduating from Polytechnic, he formed friendships with numerous artists, including Lucio Fontana, Agenore Fabbri, Aligi Sassu, Roberto Crippa, Fausto Melotti, and Arnaldo Pomodoro, with whom he collaborated on significant works in furniture and interior architecture. In 1953, alongside his brother Fulgenzio, he founded Tecno, a project he dedicated his life to, aiming to develop standard production in line with design principles. His first industrial designs included the P40 adjustable armchair and the D70 reversible seat sofa. By 1968, his office system, Graphis, co-created with Eugenio Gerli, gained global popularity, establishing Tecno as a world-leading manufacturer in office design. At the end of the 1960s, Osvaldo Borsani, together with Marco Fantoni and Valeria Borsani, founded the Tecno Designs Centre. This center was responsible for creating new products, overseeing large interior architectural projects, experimenting with new technologies, and refining business communication strategies. During this time, Borsani also opened the design process to collective contributions from external designers. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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